‘My greatest aspiration for my career is to dance’
– Benjamin Garrett
Name?
Benjamin Garrett
Age?
19
Where did you grow up?
I grew up in Muswellbrook; a town in the Upper Hunter, NSW. My family and I then moved to Melbourne in 2015.
What age did you start dancing?
I was always dancing as a child, even on the soccer field. However, I started official dance classes when I was around 8 years old.
What’s your first memory of dance?
The earliest memory that really stands out to me, is me dancing alone in my garage to Michael Jackson’s Thriller, while using a cardboard box as my ‘zombie coffin’.
Benjamin Garrett, courtesy of The Australian Ballet
Favourite ballet/contemporary work?
I would say that one of my many, many favourite works would be The Second Detail by William Forsythe.
Favourite dance film/book/podcast?
I would say my favourite ‘ballet film’ might be Billy Elliot. I think it’s a very iconic film and was pretty inspiring to me as a young boy wanting to do ballet.
Favourite moment on stage?
My favourite moment on stage was performing the Principal male solo in George Balanchine’s Who Cares?. This moment was such an exciting moment, not only because of the exuberant choreography, but it also marked the end of my journey with The Australian Ballet School.
What repertoire/role do you aspire to perform?
I dream of one day performing in a work by Crystal Pite.
Who is your dance idol or mentor?
I really respect choreographer, Alexander Ekman. I find him inspiring because he always approaches dance and his choreography with a sense of humour, play and discovery. I think this is a very important sentiment for me as I believe approaching dance in this way allows for more creative exploration and enjoyment, rather than feeling trapped by your own self criticism.
Do you prefer the classical or contemporary repertoire?
I usually gravitate towards more contemporary repertoire.
How have you been keeping busy during lockdown?
I have been trying to keep creative where I can by drawing and painting, but other times I will lounge around the house trying to decide what TV series to start next.
What are you most looking forward to about being back in the studio?
I’m really looking forward to being surrounded by people and being able to share our love for dance with audiences again.
What do you think makes TAB such an incredible company to be a part of?
The Australian Ballet is such a welcoming and broad community that I believe allows and encourages its dancers to really explore and find who they want to be as an artist.
What is your biggest aspiration for your career?
My greatest aspiration for my career is to dance and experience as many different ballets, styles and choreographers as I can squeeze into my time on Earth.